Update on Repairs to Christmas Island Port Infrastructure

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I am pleased to provide a further update to the community on progress with the repairs to critical components of the Christmas Island Port infrastructure.

Repairs to the wharf crane

As you are aware, the wharf crane has been out of service since February, following the failure of its slew bearing. The replacement part was delivered to Christmas Island on 1 August and work to dismantle and repair the crane is currently underway. While the crane structure is accessible on the wharf pavement, the port manager is using the opportunity to also undertake other repairs and preventive maintenance. The crane will be returned to service at the completion of the installation works. This is expected to occur around 21 August.

Purchase of the crawler crane

As I have previously advised, the Government provided $3.3 million for the purchase, refurbishment, delivery and commissioning of a second-hand 350 tonne mobile crawler crane which will provide back-up to the wharf crane.

The mobile crane has now completed its 10-year certification works in Perth and is being transported to Darwin, from where it is scheduled to depart on a barge for Christmas Island on 16 August.

With favourable weather and sea conditions, the crane is expected to arrive at Christmas Island around 27 August. Following commissioning and testing, crane operator training will be delivered.

I would like to take this opportunity to again thank you for your patience with the disruptions resulting from these infrastructure failures, and acknowledge the efforts of the Department, port manager, PRL and Zentner to minimise the disruption.